13 Arrested Over Molotov Cocktail Attack on Rohingya Settlement in Johor

Thirteen Local Men Detained Following Kulai Firebombing

Thirteen local men aged 16 to 31 were detained by police in the Kulai district following a Molotov cocktail attack targeting homes at a Rohingya settlement in Kulai Besar. The operation, conducted from October 14 until October 19, yielded the arrests of suspects linked to the incident, with four individuals carrying a combined total of 12 prior criminal and drug-related records.

Johor police chief Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad stated that the initial report regarding the fire was received at approximately 1.30am on October 13. The firebombing caused minor fires at the gates of several houses belonging to Rohingya residents, but the flames were extinguished swiftly, resulting in no injuries or property damage.

Viral Social Media Videos Spark Retaliation Fears

Investigators are examining whether the attack was carried out in retaliation for two viral Facebook videos. The footage allegedly showed a group of individuals believed to be Rohingya challenging Malays to come to the Kulai area, calling Malays cowards, and claiming they dared not enter the area. Police subsequently received a report regarding the online content.

A Rohingya man in his 30s filed a police report denying any involvement in the creation of the videos, claiming that his photograph and image had been misused by others to produce the material. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the attack was carried out by individuals angered by the videos.

Police Arrests and Ongoing Penal Code Investigations

Following the raids across the Kulai district, law enforcement seized 13 mobile phones, three sets of clothing, and three baseball caps from the suspects. Johor police secured varying remand orders for the 13 detainees: four suspects were held for eight days beginning October 14, four for a week, one for five days beginning October 15, and the remaining four for a week starting October 19.

The Johor Contingent Police Headquarters Criminal Investigation Department and the Kulai District Police Headquarters Criminal Investigation Department are handling the inquiry. Investigators opened two separate investigation papers under Section 436 of the Penal Code for mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to destroy a house. Additional inquiries proceed under Sections 505(b) and 505(c) of the Penal Code concerning statements that cause public fear or alarm or incite one group against another, alongside Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for the improper use of network facilities.

Public Appeals and Hotline Information

Police officials urged members of the public to refrain from speculating or making comments that could interfere with or jeopardize the investigation processes. Authorities emphasized that firm action will be taken against anyone attempting to threaten public peace and racial harmony in Johor.

Anyone possessing relevant information regarding the Molotov cocktail incident or the viral videos is encouraged to contact the nearest police station. Alternatively, the public can reach the Johor police hotline at 019-2792095 or contact the Johor police contingent headquarters operations room directly at 07-2212999.